Venezuelan Footballers Join Search for Teammate's Missing Family After Quake

In the wake of devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela, a group of professional footballers from the Venezuelan league have stepped in to help search for the family of their colleague, Lucas Trejo. The players are actively participating in the arduous task of clearing debris and are appealing for more resources to intensify the rescue operations.

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We are here to save lives, and to support Lucas Trejo, who is our friend, our football brother. The intention is that they can lend us a hand, help us in this difficult time.

Robert Garcés of Metropolitanos FC, alongside José Correa of Deportivo La Guaira and Edson Tortolero of Carabobo FC, spearheaded the initiative. "We are here to save lives, and to support Lucas Trejo, who is our friend, our football brother. The intention is that they can lend us a hand, help us in this difficult time," Garcés stated from La Guaira, highlighting the solidarity within the football community.

The players described the current situation as dire, noting that the single machine available is insufficient for the scale of the task. They urgently requested a telescopic crane, a cordless grinder, and a "pulpo" (a type of heavy lifting equipment), in addition to more human assistance. Garcés shared a video appeal, hoping to mobilize further support.

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We only have one machine, but it is not enough. We need a telescopic crane, a cordless grinder, a pulpo, and a lot of human help. I hope that with this video, you will help us.

Lucas Trejo, an Argentine player, expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support. He confirmed that his wife, Yanina Maranella, and their two children, Aarón and Ainhoa, are still missing following the collapse of their apartment building. Trejo posted on Instagram, pleading for rescue dogs and providing the location of the collapsed building, "Edificio Cunamagoto, Playa Grande," as the search continues with heavy machinery.

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Please, we need rescue dogs. Edificio Cunamagoto, Playa Grande. We are still searching.